Since 1990 Kasanaka has been privately managed by a Trust, with all profits from tourism channelled back into the community. Located on the fringe of the vast Bangweulu wetlands, the Park has no less than eight lakes and four rivers. Relatively small at just 420 square kilometres, it is surely one of Zambia’s most picturesque parks and a sanctuary to some of the rarest birds and animals in the country. Animal numbers have recovered well and you can expect to see hippo, sable antelope and Liechtenstein’s hartebeest.

There are fairly large herds of the elusive, swamp dwelling sitatunga, reedbuck, waterbuck, Sharpe’s grysbok and blue monkey, with elephant appearing in increasing numbers.

Perhaps the greatest attraction to visitors is the presence of the rare, prehistoric looking shoebill stork, along with another 330 recorded species, which include Pel’s fishing owl, pygmy goose, Ross’s loerie, osprey and wattled crane.